What is American Mothers?

American Mothers, Inc. is a national non-profit dedicated to strengthening the moral, spiritual, and educational foundations of the home and family. American Mothers sponsors service projects, teaches and supports mothers at local chapter meetings, and honors mothers across the nation for outstanding achievement. http://www.americanmothers.org

American Mothers was begun as a result of the Civil War. Families were bitterly divided over the issue of slavery and Anna Reeves Jarvis believed that the only remedy to this hatred was love. She invited both Union and Confederate soldiers and their families to join her in celebrating a “Mother’s Friendship Day.” She worked unsuccessfully to have this day made into a national holiday. Her daughter took up the cause and on Feb 4, 1914 Woodrow Wilson made Mother’s Day a national holiday.

Texas joined with other states in organizing local chapters. The first Mother of the Year for the state of Texas was Grace Noll Crowell in 1938. Many dedicated women have worked to promote the ideals of American Mothers in Texas over the years. Texas has a long history of nominating outstanding women as Mother of the Year. In a future post I will give you a peek into the lives of some of the women who have been honored as Mother of the Year in Texas.

Anyone can be a member of American Mothers, whether male or female, married or single. The local chapter meets monthly to discuss different aspects of motherhood. These meetings are designed to strengthen individual mothers. The chapter unites Texans in support of the dignity and importance of motherhood. Interfaith events and mini-conferences are organized to inspire and honor mothers.

You can get involved in this non-profit by:
1. joining the national organization
2. attending local chapter meetings
3. nominating a mother of the year or young mother representative
4. submitting a “This I Believe – Motherhood Edition” essay for more info
5. observing Mother’s Day
6. praying for your own family and the mothers and families of America
7. support events that promote motherhood and family values

You can contact a local chapter leader by emailing to: americanmotherssa at gmail dot com